Google Search Tips

For college level research, Google isn't always your best bet. Check out the Google vs. Database table to the right, before you decide to search the web.

The tips below can help you search Google like a pro, and will help you find the best results possible:

Limit your results to trusted domains such as .edu or .gov by adding site:.edu or site:.gov to the end of your search phrase

Remove terms, phrases, or websites from your search by using - followed by the term or site to remove, for instance, remove Pinterest results by adding -site:pinterest.com to the end of your search phrase

Google vs. Databases

Google

Library Databases

► Familiar and easy to use

► Not as easy to navigate for first-time users

► Free to search, but some content may be behind pay walls

► All content is paid for by the library, which is supported by your tuition

► Contains a wide assortment of websites, images, and videos which can be published or uploaded by anyone with an internet connection

► Contains materials selected by librarians that are appropriate for college level research

► Uses natural language searching to return millions of results, some of which are relevant

► Uses keyword searching to return fewer, more relevant results, which can be further refined using limiters

► Supported by sponsors and advertising, and results are ranked by relevance but may be affected by content